ECCA says fire sprinklers should not be mandatory

Fire sprinkler systems should not be made mandatory for new build care homes, according to the English Community Care Association (ECCA). Responding to the Government’s consultation on fire safety building regulations, ECCA chief executive Martin Green said that, as responsible providers of care, members of ECCA would not vote against any measures that saved lives and stopped fire damage. However, Mr Green said that, with comprehensive fire policies and procedures in place, should be part of a range of options and not mandatory in all new build situations. The Government is seeking further information on the potential impact of the mandatory introduction of sprinklers in new build or refurbished care homes. In July/August 2005 ECCA ran a poll asking whether sprinklers should be mandatory in all new build care homes and those undergoing building works. A total of 229 people voted and 92.1 per cent thought that sprinklers should not be mandatory. Mr Green said evidence from ECCA members had shown that the real